Azithromycin: Uses, side effects, Dosage, and Global Brands

Overview

Azithromycin is widely known as an antibiotic used almost everywhere for treating any possible types of bacterial infections. The antibiotic belongs to the class of macrolide antibiotics, which inhibit growth in bacteria and many types of infections. Out here is the complete guide for you that you can find in it, which holds uses of Azithromycin, its dosage, side effects and availability all around the globe under brand names from manufacturer to manufacturer’s shelf.

What is Azithromycin?

Azithromycin is an antibiotic belonging to the macrolide group known for being broad-spectrum against pathogens. The inhibition of protein synthesis within bacteria leads to the stop of their reproduction, thus allowing the immune system to mount its defense against the invading pathogen. Easy administration regimes of Azithromycin further facilitate its extensive experience within the practice of bacteriological infections.

Azithromycin is used to Treat

Respiratory infections:

In respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia and sinusitis and routine atypical pneumonia from other organisms like Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

Skin and soft tissue infections:

In skin soft tissues, azithromycin treats cellulitis or impetigo resulting from organism sensitivity to it.

Sexually transmitted infections:

These sexually transmitted infections are chlamydia and gonorrhea. Thus, the treatment of uncomplicated chlamydia infections is the first choice.

Ear infections: 

Very specifically, acute onset works well in the developing child otitis media with shortened treatment.

Throat infections:

In other words, oropharyngeal tissues, being used in the treatment of streptococcal pharyngitis with penicillin-allergic persons.

Certain stomach infections:

This is part of combined therapy with peptic ulcers by treating some cases of gastritis, including Helicobacter pylori.

Azithromycin Dosage

The dosage of Azithromycin is given according to the infection type and the severity of the infection. The general guidance is as follows:

For Adults:

Respiratory infections and skin infections: For treatment of respiratory and skin infections- initial administration of 500 mg on day one followed by a daily dosage of 250 mg for four further days.

• Chlamydia: single dose of 1 g.
• For typhoid: 500 mg daily for about 5 to 7 days.

For Children’s:

The prescribed dose is based on body weight, usually about 10 mg/kg on the first day, followed by 5 mg/kg every day for the next four days.

In special Cases:

Infectious agents in asymptomatic sexually transmitted infections, such as those of chlamydia, are usually treated with a single dose of 1 g. In severe cases, the provider may adjust as clinically indicated.

Always follow the advices of your healthcare provider as regarding dosage in order not only to maximize effectiveness but also to reduce antibiotic resistance.

Azithromycin Side effects:

Azithromycin covers a patient very well. Some patients experience the following side effects: –

Gastrointestinal symptoms:

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are the most common Gastrointestinal symptoms

Allergic reactions:

which are rare and frequently include rashes, itching, or difficulty in breathing.

Cardiac effects:

Prolongation of QT interval in susceptible individuals, resulting in arrhythmias.

Other effects:

headache, dizziness, and minor skin reactions.

Critical side effects such as difficulty breathing or burning effects on the whole body require immediate medical attention. Communicate with your healthcare provider if you are taking other medications while you are sick.

Azithromycin Precautions

Avoid Antacids:

Don’t take any type of antacid within two hours of Azithromycin if it is a containing aluminum or magnesium antacid.

Comprehensive Treatment:

Complete the given treatment, even if symptoms improvement is there or else will lead to antibiotic resistance.

Consult a doctor:

If you suffered from liver disease in history and kidney problems or history of heart problems, please take advice of your doctor.

Drug Interactions:

Azithromycin might interact with some of the drugs like warfarin, statins, and some medications for cardiac dysrhythmia infection.

Top Brands of Azithromycin in the World

In Pakistan popular brands include:

1. Zetro: Getz Pharma
2. Zithromed: Medicraft
3. Azitma: SAMI Pharmaceuticals (Pvt.) Ltd.
4. Azomax: AGP Pharma
5. Loqathro: Brand: Abbott

In India popular brands include:

1. Azithral: Alembic Pharmaceuticals
2. Zithrocin: Cipla
3. AZAX: Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories

In United States popular brands include:

1. Zithromax: Pfizer
2. Zmax: Pfizer, extended-release formulation
3. Generic Azithromycin: Teva and Sandoz.

In United Kingdom popular brands include:

1. Zithromax: Pfizer
2. Azithromycin tablets: Teva, Sandoz, and others.

In Canada popular brands include:

1. Zithromax: Pfizer
2. Teva-Azithromycin: A cost-effective alternative.
3. Sandoz Azithromycin: Generic formulation.

In Other Countries

1. Sumamed: Europe, by Teva
2. Hemomycin: Russia, by Hemofarm
3. Aziswift: South Africa, by Aspen Pharmacare

How to Safely Take Azithromycin

Follow to these precautions to take azithromycin safely:

Follow Your Doctor’s Prescription:

Always take azithromycin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not take in excess or deficit, as well as not for a longer duration than recommended.

Ensure Proper Dosage:

The azithromycin is administered through various forms like in the form of tablets, liquid suspension, or injections. A few basic dosage forms include;

• Single Dose: A high single dose may be recommended for certain infections (e.g., 1 g for some STIs).
• Course of Treatment: For respiratory or skin infections, it is often intended that it is taken as a 3-day course (500 mg once daily) or 5-day course (500 mg on the first day, then 250 mg daily for 4 days).

How to take it:

• With or Without Food: Azithromycin can usually be taken whether with or without food. If you notice any stomach upset then take it with food.
• Oral Suspension: Shake well before use. Measure with a measuring spoon or oral syringe for accuracy.
• Tablets: Swallow whole with a full glass of water.

Timing:

• The same time every day helps you maintain the levels constant inside your body.
• If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Never take a double dose.

Interactions:

• Keep Away from Antacids: Do not use antacids with aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours of azithromycin as they would inactivate azithromycin.
• Bring with you for every medicine, supplements, or herbal remedy to the doctor to avoid complications due to possible interactions.

Storage Conditions:

• Keep azithromycin tablets at room temperature and dry.
• Refrigerate the suspension if advised and throw away any unused remainder after the stipulated period.

Completion of the Course:

• Even if you feel better then, try to complete the entire course of azithromycin to prevent bacterial resistance.

Conclusion

Azithromycin is certainly the antibiotic referred to, just that this antibiotic is used effectively all around the world. They come under some of the well-known trade names, which indeed make them very highly accessible for the patients. However, this is a highly responsible drug that should be used under the supervision of a health professional because this drug primarily targets bacterial infections.

Azithromycin is your solution to bacterial infection, from Pakistan to the USA and elsewhere. Consult your doctor for appropriate treatment options tailored to your situation. Be aware of what this antibiotic can do for patients regarding search and dosage, side effects, and the various global brands. Such information will empower patients to make informed choices about their health. And azithromycin remains one of the key antibiotics in modern medicine, its scope continues healing and giving hope to millions around the world.